Justice minister to lead Progressive Democrats

Michael McDowell, Ireland's combative justice minister, was confirmed as leader of the Progressive Democrat (PD) party yesterday, signalling an early start to the republic's general election campaign.

The outspoken opponent of Sinn Féin will assume the position of tanaiste, or deputy prime minister. The Progressive Democrats are the junior partner in the governing coalition led by Bertie Ahern and his Fianna Fáil party. Mr McDowell, a barrister, was elected leader of the PDs unopposed after Mary Harney, who had held the post since 1993, resigned abruptly last week.